Saint Laurent's Carré Bag Is An Exercise In Restrained Elegance

When it comes to the art of accessorising, Saint Laurent typically leans toward the timeless end of the spectrum instead of the trendy, and Fall/Winter 2020’s indispensable accoutrement is no exception. Tapping on the Maison’s longstanding tradition of and expertise in maroquinerie, the Carré satchel returns for the third season running in fresh colours and materials, offering a fitting counterpoint to the BDSM-meets-bourgeois vibe of the ready-to-wear segment with its ’70s-inflected minimalist chic.

Beautifully restrained in design, the Carré (French for “square”) showcases the sleek, boxy silhouette that’s somewhat of a Saint Laurent signature, but is set apart by the name-engraved square clasp that adorns its front flap, a marked departure from the usual YSL hardware. This season’s iteration is updated with thinned edges for an extra touch of refinement, while the sizeable single interior fits in all your everyday essentials and the adjustable, broader-than-average strap ensures optimal comfort even after prolonged wear.

Harmonising with the autumnal palette of the RTW lineup, the Carré bag now arrives in rich hues of opium red, cobalt blue, mustard yellow and black, and in a choice of smooth box leather (prized for its patina), shiny alligator and ostrich nubuck leather with a plongé lambskin lining.